The Sconi

Derrick Van Orden, a U.S. representative, announced that the House of Representatives passed a clean continuing resolution to keep the government operational and urged Senate Democrats to take action on it. The statement was made on X.

"House Republicans did our job passing a clean CR to avoid a government shutdown," said Derrick Francis Van Orden, U.S. Representative from Wisconsin. "Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats rather play political games instead of doing the right thing and keep the government open for the American people. It's time for them to get on board and support the CR."

A "clean" continuing resolution (CR) is a short-term funding bill that generally extends current spending levels without major policy changes, preventing a lapse in appropriations while negotiations continue. Congress often relies on CRs to avert shutdowns when full-year bills are not finalized, preserving operations for agencies and services while lawmakers seek consensus on toplines and priorities. Understanding how CRs function clarifies claims about keeping the government open and maintaining stability for families, small businesses, and national security.

Government shutdowns have measurable economic costs. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the 35-day partial shutdown of 2018–2019 reduced real GDP by $11 billion during the quarter and permanently lowered the level of GDP by about $3 billion after activity resumed. While most lost output was later recovered, the remaining loss reflected forgone work, delayed spending, and reduced demand that could not be fully recaptured—illustrating why lawmakers frequently opt for temporary funding rather than lapses.

Continuing resolutions can impede planning but also sustain core missions. The Government Accountability Office reports that CRs constrain new starts and long-term contracts; however, agencies adapt with phased funding and reprogramming to maintain readiness. The Department of Defense, for example, may delay procurement milestones under a CR but continues essential operations and training, underscoring the stabilizing role of stopgap measures while full-year appropriations are finalized.

Van Orden represents Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District. A retired U.S. Navy SEAL senior chief with multiple combat deployments, he has emphasized fiscal responsibility, border security, and support for veterans and rural communities. In Congress, he serves constituents across western and central Wisconsin and focuses on pragmatic results for families, farmers, and small businesses. His official biography highlights decades of military leadership and community engagement that inform his approach to appropriations, oversight, and constituent services.